Naturally Nora (think all-natural Betty Crocker) has a full line of cake, frosting, and brownie mixes made with no artificial ingredients - inspired by a mom! (www.naturallynora.com)

Tortilla roll-ups: Spread a tortilla with peanut butter and jelly, then roll up into a log and cut into inch-long pieces. Or use crabmeat to make your own California wrap - crab's low in carbs, calories, and fat, but high in protein. (Since I'm originally from Maryland, crabmeat is big at our house.)

Smoothies: Blend one cup of milk with two cups of any combination of fruit or berries. For a dairy-free option, use soy milk or orange juice.

Hard-boiled eggs: I always have them on-hand in fridge. An easy eat-on-the-go protein.

Make-your-own trail mix: Toss one cup of cornflakes or Chex cereal with ½-cup raisins, ¼-cup almonds or peanuts, and one cup of mini crackers.

Popcorn.

Cheese (melt on tortilla or muffin). I love the new flavors of Laughing Cow.

Celery with raisins, aka "ants on a log": Spread cream cheese or peanut butter in the groove of a celery stalk and top with raisins.

GUIDES TO OUR REGIONS

Hiking in the great outdoors and rock climbing -- whether indoors or out -- are both wonderful opportunities for families to exercise together while having fun. And though both sports have their risks, even young children can be successful and safe with the right planning and preparation. Check out our roundup of articles below for all you need to know before going hiking or climbing with your kids in the New York City area (and beyond!).

The Potty Whisperer, Adriana Vermillion gives parents advice, tips, and information on potty training children, from what age children should begin potty training, to facing difficulties and challenges with the potty training process.

About Us

NYMetroParents is the parenting division of Davler Media Group and encompasses 9 regional print magazines within the greater NY metro region as well as the website (nymetroparents.com). Following the success of the first NYC parenting resource book, "Big Apple Baby," BIG APPLE PARENT was launched in 1985; it is now the largest publisher of regional parenting content in the United States.